Royal Mail launches new API in bid to improve software integration for e-retailers

Royal Mail has launched a new parcels and shipping tracking platform, equipped with a new application programming interface (API), in a bid to improve integration between e-retailers' IT systems and Royal Mail's logistics system.

The new API is available to all Royal Mail business account customers at no additional cost, and will enable them to gain "improved parcels management", the company said, including the ability to monitor usage and customise reports. It will receive full IT support from Royal Mail.

Customers that use the new system will have access to Royal Mail's UK and international destination parcel services. It will enable them to track the progress of their consignments, check the status of an item and retrieve the tracking history of their shipment.

The launch is part of Royal Mail's investment in new IT systems, the organisation said, as it aims to introduce new online shipping tools for a range of different customers.

Nick Landon, managing director of Royal Mail Parcels, said that the new API will support the company against increasingly aggressive rivals.

"The new API provides the potential for improved parcels management as well as enabling e-retailers to connect to their systems to Royal Mail software much quicker than previously," he said.

Microsoft has made an early version of Windows 10 - its next operating system - available for download. The OS promises better integration and harmonisation across platforms, including mobile and desktop.
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